Nepalese migrant workers in Malaysia have collected 30,000 signatures within a week, urging the government of Nepal to fulfill its commitment to the ongoing peace process.

High-level peace talks are currently being held between a seven-party alliance and the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist), over removing the monarchy and establishing a democratic republic.

At a press conference in Kuala Lumpur yesterday, Nepal Labour Organisation spokesperson Shram Saptahik said "the war between the red and royal armies" has forced Nepalis to leave their country in search of jobs.

"It is not our will. We want peace and proper employment. We want to continue our education and employment in our own country," he said.

As the labour force is the largest social class in Nepal, migrant workers in other countries need to show their support for peace, he said.

"The government never used to listen to us (although we are the largest group in Nepal). We are demanding peace and migrant rights," he said.

"We hope the international community observes (the peace talks) to ensure that the government is listening to our voices."

The signatures, which have been submitted to the Nepal Embassy, back demands for permanent peace, participation for equal rights and facilities in the upcoming constitutional assembly, employment opportunities, and a stop to forced migration and exploitation of workers.

Nepal is also being asked to ratify the UN convention on migrant workers' rights, create proper monitoring of recruitment processes, provide insurance for those involved in hazardous jobs, and ensure efficient handling of Nepali migrants by diplomatic missions in receiving countries.

Migrant workers' rights group Tenaganita director Irene Fernandez voiced support for their cause.

"It is in the interests of the people that we, as part of the international community, support (them) in developing and strengthening the peace process to ensure democracy reigns."

There are about 500,000 Nepalese workers in Malaysia, the second-largest group after Indonesians.