How Malaysian Restaurants Can Thrive Under CMCO: 2025 SOPs & Tech Solutions

What is CMCO in Malaysia?

The Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) is a set of movement restrictions imposed by the Malaysian government as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a more relaxed version of the earlier Movement Control Order (MCO), introduced to balance public health concerns with economic needs.

CMCO was used between stricter lockdown phases (MCO) and more relaxed phases (RMCO – Recovery Movement Control Order). The goal was to contain the spread of COVID-19 while allowing some level of economic and social activity.

 

Impact of CMCO on F&B Businesses

1. Physical Distancing Measures

Maintain a minimum distance of 1 metre between dining tables.

While the number of patrons per table is no longer restricted, social distancing must still be observed within the overall dining layout.

 

2. Contact Tracing Protocols

Collect customer information via MySejahtera check-in or a manual registration log.

Ensure data is stored securely and only used for health tracing purposes.

 

3. Mask Usage

All staff and customers are required to wear face masks at all times, except when eating or drinking.

Staff should be equipped with appropriate PPE, especially in food preparation and service areas.

 

4. Health Screening Procedures

Conduct body temperature checks at all entry points. Individuals with readings above 37.5°C must be denied entry to the premises.

 

5. Sanitisation and Hygiene Standards

Disinfect all high-touch surfaces and dining areas at least three times daily. Provide hand sanitiser at entrances, payment counters, and wash areas. Ensure soap and water are available in all restrooms and handwashing stations.

 

6. Operating Hours

F&B businesses must operate only between 6:00 AM and 12:00 AM (midnight), in line with CMCO guidelines.

 

Contactless Dining: The New Normal

1. QR Code Ordering and Cashless Payments

Integrate QR code–based ordering systems to streamline the dining experience. This allows customers to view menus, place orders, and make payments directly from their smartphones—reducing wait times and minimizing staff contact.

 

2. Strengthen Delivery and Takeaway Services

With more consumers opting to dine at home, F&B businesses must prioritize delivery and takeaway services:

• Partner with established delivery platforms like GrabFood, Foodpanda, or ShopeeFood.

• Offer exclusive promotions or loyalty points for direct orders to encourage repeat business.

• Optimize packaging to maintain food quality and brand presentation during transit.

 

3. Implementing Self-Service and Digital Menus

Where feasible, implement digital e-menus accessible via QR code on tables or entry signage. For high-volume establishments or quick-service restaurants (QSRs), self-service kiosks offer a convenient, contact-free ordering experience while reducing queue congestion.

 

Benefits of Contactless Operations for Restaurants

Transitioning to contactless operations can result in:

• Faster table turnover

• Reduced labor costs

• Higher customer trust and perceived safety

• Data collection for personalized marketing

By embracing digital tools and automation, F&B operators position themselves as future-ready while delivering a safe, seamless customer experience.

 

Benefits of Integrating Contactless Solutions with Your POS System

To meet the demands of a fast-paced, digitally driven F&B environment, businesses must evolve beyond traditional point-of-sale systems. In 2025, the most competitive restaurants and cafés in Malaysia are embracing cloud-based POS solutions that seamlessly integrate contactless ordering, digital payments, and delivery operations—all within a single platform.

A modern, all-in-one restaurant POS system streamlines both front-of-house and back-end functions, reducing human error and improving operational efficiency. Key advantages include:

 

1. Seamless QR Code Ordering and Contactless Payments

Integrating QR code technology allows customers to browse menus, place orders, and pay—all without direct interaction with staff. Combined with digital wallet and credit card compatibility, this delivers a frictionless checkout experience.

• Compatible with leading e-wallets such as GrabPay, and Boost

• Reduces wait times and physical contact

• Enhances guest satisfaction and safety

 

2. Real-Time Delivery Management

Advanced POS systems, like Eats365, include built-in delivery management modules that allow F&B businesses to:

• Track in-house delivery drivers in real time

• Monitor delivery statuses and completion rates

• Manage orders across multiple channels from a single interface

This helps restaurants maintain quality control and customer satisfaction, even for off-premise dining.

 

3. Comprehensive Operational Oversight

A cloud-based POS platform doesn't just serve customers—it empowers business owners and managers with critical operational tools:

• Inventory Management: Track stock levels and set automatic reorder alerts

• Staff Management: Monitor employee schedules, shifts, and performance

• Customer Database: Collect and leverage customer insights for marketing and loyalty programs

• Sales Analytics: Access real-time dashboards and generate performance reports for data-driven decisions

 

Why Choose a Cloud-Based POS ?

Platforms like Eats365 are purpose-built for the evolving needs of modern F&B operators. With features tailored for contactless, data-driven operations, they enable restaurants to:

• Scale efficiently

• Maintain compliance with CMCO regulations

• Deliver a seamless omnichannel customer experience

Investing in an integrated POS system is no longer optional—it’s a foundational step toward future-proofing your F&B business.

F&B businesses that proactively embrace contactless technologies, enforce rigorous SOP compliance, and invest in integrated POS platforms like Eats365 are best positioned to succeed in the CMCO era. By doing so, operators not only safeguard public health but also build a foundation of trust and efficiency that drives long-term business resilience.

 

Navigating CMCO with Eats365's Integrated Solutions

Adapting to the evolving CMCO landscape requires F&B businesses to prioritize safety and efficiency. Implementing contactless solutions like QR code ordering, digital payments, and robust delivery/takeaway services are crucial. Eats365's cloud-based POS systems seamlessly integrate these features, along with inventory management, analytics, and more, empowering your restaurant to thrive in this dynamic environment. Contact Eats365 today to learn how our solutions can help your business navigate CMCO with confidence.

 

FAQs

1. What is CMCO and how does it affect F&B businesses in Malaysia?

CMCO (Conditional Movement Control Order) is a government-implemented protocol designed to curb the spread of COVID-19 while allowing limited economic activity. For F&B outlets, this means operating under strict SOPs, such as physical distancing, contact tracing, limited operating hours, and enhanced sanitisation protocols.

 

2. How can restaurants implement contactless dining experiences?

Restaurants can adopt QR code ordering, e-menus, and digital payment systems (e.g., GrabPay, Boost) to minimize contact. Self-service kiosks and integrated POS systems also support a smoother, safer customer journey while reducing staff workload.

 

3. What are the benefits of integrating a POS system like Eats365 during CMCO?

A cloud-based POS system like Eats365 helps streamline:

• Contactless ordering and payments

• Real-time delivery and takeaway operations

• Inventory, staff, and sales data management

This integration boosts efficiency, customer trust, and business continuity.