The government has not retracted the perks, facilities or staff allocated to former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad, said the Prime Minister's Department (PMD).

In a statement, the PMD revealed this included the staff for his Yayasan Perdana office and his residence at Mines Resort City in line with the Members of Parliament (Remuneration) Act.

The PMD said the total number of stall allocated for Mahathir is 21.

“The cost is fully borne by the government, covering the payment of salaries, allowances and other facilities which a civil servant is entitled to,” it added.

This was in response to claims on social media that the former premier's escorts had been recalled.

Meanwhile, PMD revealed that it still pays the utility bills for Mahathir's office and residence.

Apart from this, the government also handles the food allowance as well as other expenses for his escorts, personal bodyguards, medical officers and assistant special officer during trips abroad.

“Therefore, the government would like to stress once again that none of the perks has been retracted and the same treatment is accorded to all former prime ministers,” said the PMD.