Malhoun is a popular form of sung poetry.
Versification of a language, typically dialectal Arabic, but sometimes Hebrew is also used, based on everyday situations, developed in a particular poetic metric according to the language used. Tafilalet, a region in southeastern Morocco, is considered the birthplace of Malhoun since at least the 10th century according to historical sources.
Known for its musicality and melody, it is based on forms and themes that are characterized by images, poetry, and narrative discourses. Featuring love songs and the joys of life, women's beauty and natural wonders, religious entreaties and supplications, wine and pleasures, gastronomy and imaginary journeys, political issues and social issues, etc. Traditional Malhoun art has been transmitted non-formally through the years in a variety of artistic and creative aspects. Master musicians, singers, and text transcribers learn from apprentices, especially singers. Today, Malhoun is passed on both by formal and informal means. Youths wishing to become Malhoun singers can study the basics, whether with instruments or with the rules of singing, through troupes of artists specializing in Malhoun art.
Poets have the privilege of introducing their brand-new creations immediately after learning Khazzan poetics. In addition to making sure the transmission of poems was maintained for centuries, the khazzan (true sentinels of Malhoun's memory of learning hundreds of ancient poems from his court) also served as mediators between poet-composers and singers. There are a number of associations dedicated to Malhoun, which have been formed in Morocco today. Malhoun has never faced any external or internal constraints that prevented him from undertaking safeguarding measures. Malhoun has been safeguarded by the State since the early 20th century. Poems of this genre have been written since Sultan Moulay Hafid. Moreover, a national congress was held in Marrakech in 1970, where several actors and researchers discussed creative and heritage aspects, as well as ways to promote and develop Malhoun.
Currently, in its 10th volume, the Malhoun Encyclopedia is being published by the Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco. Under the supervision of Academician Abbas Jirari, a Member of the Academy and advisor to the King, the project is being carried out. Television and radio channels have dedicated specific programs and show to Malhoun and his work for decades. Documentation, archiving, and backup was made available to the general public through distribution. Several festivals exclusively dedicated to Malhoun are organized by the Ministry of Culture every year, including those in Tafilalet and Taraudant.