How did you get involved with Doka?
For several years now I’ve been renting a music studio in Broedplaats at Volkshotel together with Masalo. After all these years the Volkshotel building actually feels like an extension of my home. I also used to DJ in the old Doka, and while I liked the place already back then, I always felt it had more potential – especially in terms of acoustics and sound.
In 2019 we were invited for a brainstorm session to rethink and reshape Doka into something different and I immediately felt excited to be part of it. Together with an amazing team we had the opportunity to work on every detail; from acoustic treatment and sound system, to the DJ booth design and lighting plan.
It is incredible to have seen it come to life over the past few years. We’ve had many great nights there and I still think it’s one of the best spaces Amsterdam has to offer today.
What inspired you to combine your passion for music with your interest in medicine?
Since I was a little kid, I was already drawn to both music and medicine—undoubtedly influenced by my grandfather, who moved from Jakarta to Amsterdam to become a surgeon, and my father, who became both a doctor and a DJ. These two worlds have always coexisted in my life, and while they may seem like complete opposites on the surface, I’ve come to realize they both touch the core of life in profound ways.
Medicine can deal with the rawest, most vulnerable moments we can experience. It’s about life and death, about suffering and healing, about being present for people when they are at their weakest. Music and the dance floor on the other hand, are about connection, release and celebration.
Working with ill patients constantly put my own worries into perspective. Seeing people fight for their health and witnessing how fragile life can be constantly kept me grounded. At the same time, DJing became more than ever a place of freedom—a space where I could let go and fully embrace each moment. I think in a way, music and medicine became my counterbalance—one grounding me in reality, the other allowing me to transcend it. They don’t just complement each other; they complete me.
Music can have a healing effect. Is that something you’re consciously incorporating into your sets?
Definitely. Music has an incredible power to shift emotions, bring people together, and create a sense of release. Whether it’s through rhythm, melody, or energy, I believe it can be therapeutic—both on an individual and collective level.
When I DJ, I aim to create an emotional journey. I love finding that sweet spot between tension and release, darkness and light, introspection and euphoria. A great set isn’t just about making people dance— for me it’s about creating a space where they can feel. Sometimes that means building up intensity to let something out, and other times it’s about bringing warmth and fluidity to let people fully sink into the music.
Especially in a time where life can feel overwhelming, the dancefloor can be a place of escape, connection, and even healing. I think we’ve all had those moments where a track just hits in a way that feels almost transcendental—where time dissolves, and for a brief moment, everything feels right. That’s the kind of space I hope to create.
What do you hope to achieve with Dance II Care?
After graduating as a medical doctor a few months ago, I felt the need to bring my two worlds together—music and medicine. Dance II Care was born from the idea that the collective energy on the dancefloor can extend beyond the night, turning music and connection into something tangible: support for those who need it most.
The world is full of suffering—wars, crises, and a lack of access to basic healthcare in so many places. Often I feel frustrated and overwhelmed by it, and I know many others do too. It can be difficult wanting to make a difference but not always knowing how. With Dance II Care, I hope to create something that channels that feeling into action—turning the collective energy of the dancefloor into something meaningful. Together, through music and connection, we can transform that energy into real impact.
How did you approach curating the line-ups for Dance II Care and what can people expect from the atmosphere?
The guests I’ve invited for Doka are Sedef Adasi and DJ Masda, two artists who inspire me musically and whose approach to DJing resonates with me. And of course, I’ve invited my parents, Dr. Tiong and DJ Sylvia, who both DJ’d professionally in the ‘80s and ‘90s in Amsterdam and beyond. Growing up, I was surrounded by their vinyl collection, which shaped me into the DJ I am today. Having them be part of this feels special—it brings everything full circle.
In terms of sound and vibes these events aren’t any different than a good club night. Expect high energy, deep musical journeys, and an atmosphere filled with connection and euphoria!
Dance II Care will be held on March 7th, 14th & 21st
www.volkshotel.nl/agenda
Follow Kamma on: @kammakamma_
Photos by: @alizeeschroots
