Malaysian turtles are raised in shallow water. The Malayan fruit turtle inhabits shallow waters rich in aquatic plants, such as swamps, wetlands, and streams in forests. Malay fruit tortoises, especially adults, require large housing facilities, including warm, clean water and a piece of land. Placing branches and sinking trees in the water and laying straw on land can help relieve the tortoise's mental stress.

Indoors, Malayan fruit turtle has been proved is quite fragile. Provide them with 3 to 4 thick filtered warm water, and a land with many natural hiding places. These hiding places can include tropical plants and small evergreen shrubs. Leaves and stacks of palm fronds add more safety.

The composition of the substrate should be first a layer of fine gravel, then a top layer of half peat moss and half moist sand, and finally covered with thick cypress branches to maintain humidity. A UVB fluorescent bulb should be placed above the paddock and a 100-watt spotlight should be placed above the tanning area. Turtles rarely bask, and when someone approaches their enclosure, they retreat to the nearest shelter.