"If the Arabs had known the same rhythm of development as the Asian dragons, we wouldn't have this extremism," he said.

Indonesia and the other Asian "dragons" will do that in one generation, he said.

But remember that many of the East Asian 'dragons' were commodity exporters.

Like all these Asian dragons, it is shown without wings, has legs with claws, and usually lives in the ocean, the clouds, or heavens.

Asian dragons are often benign - bringing rain, revealing treasures or granting wishes.

The quick industrialization of Indonesia, Taiwan, South Korea and other Asian "dragons" have created an enormous demand for Australia's coal, iron ore and gold.

This is in contrast to Asian dragons, who are traditionally depicted as more benevolent creatures.

This world is Vietnam, the latest Asian dragon to awake from its slumber.

Asian dragons are considered symbolic of wisdom and knowledge, unlike the ferocious western dragons.

"If people were eating and ignoring the music, that would be a bad sign," said Mr. Simon, surrounded by hipsters in the latest Asian dragon tank tops.