Estranged lead singer Rich plans to run in Sabah elections – in three years time


Rich plans to run in Sabah's 17th state election - not the upcoming 16th state election. Photo: Rich Gimbang/Instagram

The lead singer of local rock band Estranged, Rich, wants to use his voice to help the people of Tambunan – and we're not talking about his music.

Rich, whose full name is Richael Lawrence Gimbang, has announced his hope to become a state assemblyman.

"I've decided to contest for the Tambunan state seat in Sabah's 17th state election in about three year's time. (Not the upcoming 16th state election on Sept 26)," he told mStar, The Star's Malay-language news portal.

It all began when the 38-year-old and his band members took part in a CSR project at Tambunan two years ago.

The former Akademi Fantasia contestant says his work begins now. "For the three years leading up to the elections, I want to do my best for the people, especially those who face difficulties in accessing water, electricity and the Internet."

"I also want to work on providing better education for the youths there."

Rich, however, has not decided on which party he will contest under.

The singer adds he has no plans to leave the music industry. In fact, his fellow Estranged members – lead guitarist Nor " Enha" Hanafi and rhythm guitarist Din Hormatov – will be lending their support.

"My band members will be helping me. It's like a journey for all of us at Estranged.

"We will go and get to know the people there. I don't want people to vote for me just because I'm an artiste.

"I don't want them to know me as an artiste but as someone who can do the work and understands their needs."

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Music , Estranged , Rich Gimbang

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