Unlike most nations, Malatora has very few written laws. Instead, much of what is considered "legal" or not is dictated by the morals and social norms that all citizens follow, and these effectively carry the weight of the written laws found in other nations. Generally speaking, common sense and simple social courtesy are considered more important than putting ink to paper, so most of the rules remain uncodified.
Capital Punishment:FedCom does not currently have a death penalty in place, for any crime... and there are no plans to change this policy anytime soon.
The most severe punishment in FedCom is permanent banishment.
Major Taboos:The most severe punishment in FedCom is permanent banishment.
FedCom is generally a very open society, and accepts a wide range of views and opinions. However, like all societies, there are a few attitudes and practices that are taboo:
Traditions, Customs, and Social Norms- Sadism, rape, and torture
- Racism, sexism, and bigotry and hate crimes of all sorts
- Terrorism
- Slavery
- Tyranny
When in Malatora, observe Malatoran cultural values — these values may be starkly different from those of your homeland, but that does not give you the right to criticize any Malatoran. For the most part, the Malatoran population is curious and accepting of contrasting opinions. Tolerance and respect for others is a way of life on our island.
Remember: while the diverse population may be a curiosity to you, you are most likely not the same to them, and you should not deal with anyone as if they were freaks of nature.
Remember: while the diverse population may be a curiosity to you, you are most likely not the same to them, and you should not deal with anyone as if they were freaks of nature.
Do's and Don'ts
- Do be polite and courteous — a smile and a friendly attitude go a long way!
- Don't bare your teeth when smiling — this gesture is generally regarded as a threat display, so keep your teeth mostly hidden with your lips, to avoid misunderstandings and mixed messages.
- Do keep an open mind, and refrain from judgmental comments about Malatoran society until you have spent some reasonable time among our people, as you would anywhere else.
- Do take the time to get to know the locals. Friendships can be easily made and last a long time.
- Don't refer to cytrans as "it" or other neuter terms — they have genders too, so use the correct pronouns.
- Do treat cytrans with the same common courtesy and respect that you would like them to give you.
- Do speak directly to a cytran you wish to converse with — they are people too.
- Don't automatically assume that every cytran shares the same ethical values as you, or otherwise anthropomorphize them — each species is unique, and must be judged by their own values.
- Do feel free to give service staff an enthusiastic "thank you" in lieu of a tip for good service — the Malatoran economy has no use for money, so honest praise is regarded as considerably more valuable.
- Don't attempt to bribe anyone for anything — this is regarded as a serious insult that questions their honesty and integrity, and will make you extremely unpopular.
