Penang Dec 19 2009: Penang Citizen Journalists graduating from the series of citizen journalism workshops organised by news portal Malaysiakini gathered at a beach resort for a graduation party.

The 33 graduates represent the 1st and 2nd groups that had completed the workshops held on the island this year.

Many of the graduates have produced videos touching on issues that had resulted in direct and positive responses from state as well as federal authorities.

Malaysiakini has been conducting the citizen journalism workshops since early this year in various locations including in the states of Sarawak and Sabah.

All in all 150 people from all walks of life and professions, have undergone the citizen journalism programme.

The CJs have produced 430 videos so far on issues ranging from ethnic relations, religious acceptance and human rights.

Also included in the list of videos are issues more local in nature such as demolition of settlements, flooding, vernacular schools, disrepair of historical sites and poor maintenance of public amenities and many more.

Not to be left out are coverage of cultural events.