Malaysiakini compares the key news and views in major newspapers. What is today's agenda for the English, Bahasa, Tamil and Chinese papers?

FRONT PAGE

English newspapers

New Straits Times,

The Star and The Sun front-paged the killing of former Pakistan prime minister Benazir Bhutto at a political rally yesterday. The Star carried a photo of Benazir at the rally before she was shot.

New Straits Times also reported on Federal Court's decision on R Subashini case that the dispute between her and ex-husband comes under civil court but he has the right to seek redress in Syariah Court.

The Sun reported that the landmark ruling did not answer the question as to which court has exclusive jurisdiction to hear Subashini's case.

Malay newspapers

Utusan Malaysia and Berita Harian led with Benazir assassination. Utusan Malaysia also reported Pakistan President Pervez Musharaf condemed killing and asked the people to calm down and carried a photo of the scene after suicide bombing by her assassin.

Utusan Malaysia also front-paged Deputy Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak's announcement that financial aid will be given to flood victims next month. He had also asked relevant department and agencies to estimate the amount of damage to infrastructure and public amenities.

Berita Harian also led with over 27,000 candidates scored all As in PMR exam. The results announce yesterday showed increase in the percentage of straight As as compared to last year.

Chinese newspapers

Sin Chew Daily

and Nanyang Siang Pau front-paged the killing of Benazir in a suicide attack yesterday.

However, Oriental Daily News led with the judgment of the Federal Court in the Subashini case yesterday.

EDITORIAL

English newspapers

New Straits Times

discussed how government subsidies may improve Penang ferry service which currently suffering from financial losses. It suggested that a direct subsidies like a public transport system would be better for the people as opposed to broad consumption-based subsidies such as for fuel or energy.

The Star commented on the ability of Proton to turnaround without a strategic partner. It said the national carmaker which reported slight profit in its recent quarterly report must give immediate attention to product quality to compete with foreign cars.

The Sun said commented on the Federal Court ruling on R Subashini divorce petition yesterday that protects civil marriage from attempts to escape marriage obligations through conversion into Islam. It is difficult to balance the rights of Muslim and non-Muslim spouses in the parallel judicial systems. However, there are a lot of other issues in our daily lives that go beyond the scope of law. Hence, justice and compassion are the utmost foundation of civilised society.

Malay newspapers

Utusan Malaysia reminded parents to spend wisely on children's school clothes and accessories. It said, despite the abolishment of school fees and free textbooks, consumers especially the lower income group are still burdened with the price increase.

Berita Harian hoped that newly elected thai government will pay attention to the people in southern Thailand and maintain peace in the region. It said the new ruling pro-Thaksin party should work with other small opposition parties to ensure progress of the country.

Chinese newspapers

Sin Chew Daily commented on the situation in Pakistan after the killing of Benazir.

Nanyang Siang Pau urged all political parties to raise the quality of their candidates in the coming general election.