It was a bright Thurday morning, just after my usual kopi-O kosong had put me in an unusually cheerful mood.

My senior colleague approached my table slowly, paperwork in hand, looking unsure as always. I knew what was coming next.

“Mr Koh,” he began hesitantly, “can you give me your opinion on this audit issue?”

I looked up from my desk, smiled calmly, and replied with the gentleness of a wise old auditor. “I’m not your information counter lah,” I said, smiled lightly.

He laughed, relieved I wasn’t serious—though deep down, perhaps I was a bit serious.

Seeing his puzzled face, I quickly added, “Instead, why not you do it properly this time? Show me clearly in writing.”

I paused, and in my kindest yet most professional tone, I continued:

Write it down neatly for me:
1. Advice sought
2. Preliminary objective
3. Issue
4. Conclusion
5. Reference or supporting documents.

He blinked twice, nodding as he understood and left my room.

You see, friends, as auditors, our work depends heavily on clarity and structure.

Often, we get colleagues asking for opinions on scattered facts, incomplete ideas, or verbal stories that make my head spin faster than a ceiling fan on speed five.

I’m no magician to decode random facts from thin air!

It’s not that I’m strict (well, maybe just a little), but written structure forces clear thinking.

It makes everyone’s life easier—yours and mine.

Plus, it helps you spot your own errors before I even see them.

So next time anyone asks casually, “Mr Koh, what’s your opinion?”, remember this story and my friendly warning …

I’m always happy to help but remember, I’m your boss, not your information counter lah!