Singapore - Asia, one of the world's fastest growing economies, is also home to many who are climbing the ranks of the super rich and successful.

These men became Asia's leading tycoons by craving out a prosperous empire on their own.

Despite dramatic economic downturns and setbacks, these men have fought through and emerged victorious as Asia's richest self-made businessmen.

Take a look at their stories and learn how they built their billion-dollar empires based on their skills and acumen.

Photos: AFP, Reuters, Bloomberg, ST, Annual report of Thai Beverage, Ananda Krishnan, The Nation, Ernst and Young, The Star, NSTP, Dr Li Ka-Shing Office, Fubon, Bossline.com, Internet, Youtube screengrabs

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