MIRI, MALAYSIA: A 24-year-old man with a long criminal record was arrested after he allegedly beat to death a young woman "housemate" after a domestic dispute.

The incident happened at the top floor of a three-storey shophouse in the city centre here late on Thursday night.

The victim, who was also 24, is said to be an Indonesian. The suspect is said to be married to another woman.

Witnesses said they heard shouting and screaming from the third floor of the shoplot.

It is believed that the suspect was involved in a heated argument with his wife over some personal matters.

The argument worsened when the Indonesian woman got involved. Things got out of hand and turned violent.

Members of the public who witnessed the commotion alerted the Miri central police station and the suspect was arrested at about 11pm.

The victim died after being sent to the Miri Hospital.

Miri deputy police chief Supt Ismail Idris yesterday confirmed that the case had been classified as murder.

"The suspect has a history of crimes," he added.

The Star/Asia News Network