KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 9 — Diners can eat out at restaurants again starting tomorrow, Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced today even as the current movement control order (MCO) is set to conclude next week.

However, he added that patrons opting to dine-in will be limited to two people per table and must comply with the existing standard operating procedures (SOP), including a physical distance of one metre from other patrons.

"Prior to this, restaurants are allowed to open until 10pm but limited to takeaways and deliveries.

"The special meeting held by the National Security Council yesterday has agreed to allow dine-ins and the allowed number of patrons is two person per table with a physical distance of one metre,” he said in a broadcasted press conference this afternoon.

Ismail Sabri also said the owner of the premises must assign at least one staff to ensure diners register themselves before entering the establishment, and regulate the number of people that can be inside the restaurant.

"The said staff must also limit the number of diners within the premises and ensure physical distancing among patrons,” he said.

He said more details on the SOP can be found on the National Security Council’s website.

The ongoing MCO is slated to expire on February 18.