I agree with Paulo. Say yes or no and mean it.
But you CAN hurt people by saying the opposite because my subsequent actions were based on your commitment but when it was not the truth, sometimes the plan backfired.
And it didn’t take me long to learn to say “no”. I learn from the best, MY DAD. He called a spade as a spade. Doesn’t matter Menteri, Ustaz, reporter, adik-beradik, anak-anak or anybody. He is steadfast and firm, and people respected him. I miss you Dad!