The growing integration of the region’s economies, primarily facilitated by Asean, is causing the convergence of cultures as well. The world view of each country is influenced by deeply held cultural and religious beliefs. The lesser developed Asean countries _ Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam _ practise Buddhism, which encourages acceptance of one’s fate and this has helped in overcoming adversity. These countries have coped well in times of uncertainty as compared to the more developed Asean countries like Brunei, Malaysia and Singapore.