Sahabat Pramita, have you ever heard about doctors in Indonesia? Did you know that in 1904, the Colonial Minister Dirk Fock granted permission for STOVIA graduates to study medicine in the Netherlands? One of the first STOVIA graduates to seize this opportunity was Abdul Rivai, hailing from Agam, West Sumatra. Additionally, two other native individuals, Raden Mas Asmaoen from Malang and Mas Boenjamin, were also granted the same opportunity.

According to Hans Pols in his book "Nurturing Indonesia: Medicine and Decolonisation in the Dutch East Indies," even though Abdul Rivai was the first to enroll at the University of Amsterdam, Raden Mas Asmaoen was the first to graduate in 1908. This achievement marks a significant milestone in history, as Raden Mas Asmaoen became the first native Indonesian to earn a medical degree from the University of Amsterdam in 1908. This accomplishment serves as an inspiration for today's generation to study diligently.

The role of doctors in Indonesia is of paramount importance in maintaining our health, and we should support and appreciate their efforts. Hopefully, this article sparks your interest in understanding more about the history of doctors in Indonesia and encourages you to contribute to the well-being of yourself and others!