Many problems involving relations between Malaysia and Indonesia can be resolved in the family spirit rather than through diplomatic channels, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said this followed the many similarities between the two countries which made the problems between them unique.

"We have been resolving problems with Indonesia through informal and personal approaches and not only via formal channels," he said.

He was speaking at a media conference after attending a Gathering with Malaysian citizens in Jakarta at the Malaysian Embassy in Indonesia, here Sunday.

Ahmad Zahid said informal relations can help resolve many problems which sometimes could not be settled formally.