In a medium saucepan or bowl, rinse the rice in cold water several times until the water runs clear. Drain well in a large fine-mesh sieve. Place the rice back in the saucepan.

Add the coconut milk, water, sugar, and salt.

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. When it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and cook, covered, for 20 minutes. Uncover and continue to cook for about 5 minutes until done.

Fluff with a fork and serve garnished with chopped cilantro if you like.