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

Both Star and New Straits Times reported on the interest rate cuts of between 0.5 percent and 1.5 percent for credit card payments effective March 31.

Chinese newspapers

Nanyang Siang Pau and Sin Chew Daily also headlined the credit card interest rate cuts.

China Press led with Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi handing over his position to his deputy Najib Abdul Razak on March 31.

Oriental Daily reported on Pakatan Rakyat challenging the validity of the new BN Perak government at the Kuala Lumpur High Court today.

Tamil newspapers

Malaysia Nanban reported that an inquest is being held today on the controversial case of Sujatha, a local actress who is alleged to have links with MIC youth adviser S Velpaari.

Tamil Nesan led with Deputy Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak stating that no one should question the choice of BN candidates in the upcoming by-elections.

Makkal Osai headlined Election Commission (EC) chairperson Abdul Aziz’s announcement that both the Bukit Selambau and Bukit Gantang by-elections may be held on the same day.

Malay newspapers

Utusan Malaysia headlined Malay NGOs demanding that Anwar apologise for the recent political mayhem in Perak.

Berita Harian led with the EC’s announcement that the by-elections may be held on the same day.

Editorial

New Straits Times noted the appointments of nine new commissioners in Judicial Appointment Commission (JAC).

Nanyang Siang Pau commented that although the cut in electricity tariffs was good for the rakyat, it came too little.

Sin Chew Daily said that the minor reduction in electricity tariffs was disappointing, adding that in light of the current economic downturn, it was impossible for Tenaga Nasional to reduce rates further.

Malaysia Nanban questioned whether the Bukit Selambau by-election would pose difficulties for all the parties involved.

Tamil Nesan commented that the reduction of electricity tariffs will ease the burden of the people.

Makkal Osai highlighted the achievements of the Public Complaints Bureau.

Berita Harian stated that the formation of JAC was evidence of the government’s openness and good governance.