A WHITE tarp blocks the front entrance of this sprawling compound on Jalan Teuku Umar 33, Menteng, Central Jakarta. Behind it, the compound abounds with activity. Food and drinks are laid out across a long table around the clock, offering among other things, tea, coffee and red wine.

The compound, which is located next door to President Megawatis residence, however, is not the scene of a raucous party. This is the Mega Center. It is here that pol