Entrepreneurship and growth in emerging mini-dragon economies: A South East Asia Perspective

Entrepreneurship and growth are driving forces in the development of emerging economic systems. In this exploratory study we discuss emerging economies within a South-East Asia context. In particular, we expand on a previous study on the East Asian Tiger economies, and introduce the mini-dragon economies of Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Philippines. We explore the role of various economic indicators and indices, entrepreneurship and SMEs as drivers of growth in these emerging economies. Growth factors unique to the region are also identified, and institutional and government interventions are recommended. Furthermore, we elaborate on the interdependence of the entire region on each of the mini-dragon economies. Since we have highlighted only a few of the emerging economies in the region, opportunities exist to expand the base for further study.