“We are still investigating the suspect but our initial findings show that the attack was due to a misunderstanding with the victim which happened in the last three to four years,” southwest police chief Kamarul Rizal Jenal told a press conference.

“We believe both the victim and suspect knew each other as they stayed in the same building,” he added.

Kamarul also said the police would consider whether the suspect needed mental health treatment.

He said the police have recorded statements from three people so far, including the victim.

Last Friday, Penang police detained the 39-year-old suspect on the apartment grounds at 9.21pm.

The incident took place as the 33-year-old victim was returning to his apartment on the 16th floor.

The case is being investigated for voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means under Section 324 of the Penal Code.

Doctors confirmed that the victim, who was taken to Penang Hospital, suffered burns on the front and back of his right side due to exposure to hot water.

He was reported to be in stable condition.

A 20-second clip of the incident taken from CCTV footage has gone viral on social media, with netizens condemning the woman’s actions.