It is tolerant of a broad range of habitats, including secondary and disturbed habitats. It was observed roosting in an old building (U.Sinaga pers. comm.).This species often co-occurs with other Cynopterus species, resulting in exploitation of the largest available fruits in the area in order to allow for niche partitioning (Sheherazade pers. comm.). Previous research also suggests that this species will consume pollen from a range of plant species and a significant amount of leaves (Kitchener et al. 1990).

This species occurs in Indonesia on the islands of Sumatra, Java, Bali, Lombok, Timor, and adjacent small islands (Corbet and Hill 1992).

It is not known if the species has been recorded from any protected areas. Further studies are needed in to the distribution, abundance, and natural history of this species.