Hendrik Tillema

Dutch writer and hygienist

Dr. Hendrik Tillema in the Netherlands

Hendrik Freerk Tillema (5 July 1870 – 26 November 1952) was a Dutch writer, hygienist, and public health advocate known for his work in the Dutch East Indies. His efforts focused on improving sanitation and living conditions, particularly in the city of Semarang.

Early Life and Education

Hendrik Tillema was born in Hoogezand, Netherlands. He pursued his education in pharmacy, which laid the foundation for his later work in public health. Tillema's interest in hygiene and sanitation was influenced by the poor living conditions he observed during his early career.

Career in the Dutch East Indies

In 1900, Tillema moved to the Dutch East Indies, where he initially worked as a pharmacist. He soon became involved in public health advocacy, focusing on the unsanitary conditions in urban areas. Tillema was particularly concerned with the spread of diseases such as cholera and malaria, which were prevalent due to inadequate sanitation.

Sanitation and Public Health Advocacy

Tillema's most significant contributions were in the field of sanitation. He published several works highlighting the poor living conditions in the Dutch East Indies and proposed solutions to improve public health. His book, "Kromoblanda," detailed the unsanitary conditions in Semarang and called for reforms in urban planning and sanitation.

Tillema advocated for the construction of proper sewage systems, clean water supply, and better housing conditions. His efforts were instrumental in raising awareness about public health issues and influenced colonial policies on sanitation.

Publications

Tillema was a prolific writer, and his publications were critical in spreading his ideas on hygiene and public health. His works include:

• Kromoblanda - A detailed account of the living conditions in Semarang.
• Van Wonen en Bewonen - A treatise on housing and living conditions.

Legacy

Hendrik Tillema's work had a lasting impact on public health policies in the Dutch East Indies. His advocacy for better sanitation and living conditions contributed to improvements in urban planning and public health infrastructure. Tillema is remembered as a pioneer in the field of public health in Indonesia.

Related Pages

• Semarang
• Dutch East Indies
• Public health
• Sanitation