Techniques regarding a star polymer with light-activated enhanced antimicrobial functionality are provided. For example, a polymer is provided that can comprise a plurality of non-degradable copolymer arms comprising respective first ends and respective second ends. The respective first ends can be crosslinked to form a vinyl polymer core and the respective second ends can have antimicrobial functionality. Further, the polymer can comprise a singlet oxygen generator loaded within the vinyl polymer core. The singlet oxygen generator can generate a singlet oxygen species in response to light.