The Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, is reported quiet after Saturday night rioting during which at least two-hundred-and-forty people were arrested.

It's the first time since demonstrations for political change began last month that the protests have ended in violence.

Police used tear gas and water cannon after a large crowd gathered chanting for reform; the protesters responded by throwing rocks and stones, and a series of clashes followed.

Police in balaclavas chased people through department stores, beating some of them.

The city's police chief said his men had seized several petrol bombs and hundreds of pamphlets calling for reform.

The BBC Kuala Lumpur correspondent says the authorities are clearly determined to clamp down on any form of dissent , with an Asia-Pacific summit due to be held in the Malaysian capital three weeks from now.